Despite low cattle prices, there are reasons for Iowa cattle farmers to be optimistic about the industry, experts said earlier this month at the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association’s annual meeting in Ames.

Phil Reemtsma, a veterinarian, cattle feeder and the immediate past president of the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association, said lower prices have forced cattle feeders to think differently.

"One of the things that the last 12 to 18 months has...